The New York Yankees have signed Rougned Odor to a minor-league deal with an opt-out clause after July 1. Odor, a former top prospect and multi-time 30 home run hitter, spent the 2023 season with the San Diego Padres, where he struggled with a .203 batting average and four home runs. The Padres designated him for assignment in July, and he had yet to find a team for the 2024 season until the Yankees offered him a chance.
Odor, 30, originally signed with the Texas Rangers as an international free agent in 2011 and made his MLB debut in 2014. He had a breakout season in 2016, hitting 33 home runs with 88 RBIs and followed it up with another 30 home run season in 2017 and 2019. However, Odor’s performance declined, leading to his release by the Rangers in 2021. He was then traded to the Yankees, where he hit .202 with 15 home runs in 102 games before being DFA’d.
After a brief stint with the Baltimore Orioles in 2022 and a failed contract with the Yomiuri Giants of Nippon Professional Baseball in 2024, Odor now has another opportunity in MLB with the Yankees. While primarily a second baseman, he has experience at multiple positions and will be looking to impress in the minor leagues to earn a call-up this season. The Yankees currently have Gleyber Torres as their everyday second baseman, but Odor provides depth and versatility throughout the infield.
Odor’s signing with the Yankees represents a low-risk, high-reward move for the team, as they hope he can regain his past form and provide valuable contributions. With his power potential and experience at multiple positions, Odor could provide a boost to the Yankees’ lineup if he can perform well in the minor leagues and earn a spot on the MLB roster. The Yankees have a history of taking chances on players seeking a second chance, and Odor fits that mold as they look to bolster their roster for the upcoming season.
Despite his recent struggles, Odor’s track record as a former top prospect and successful home run hitter makes him an intriguing addition for the Yankees. If he can rediscover his past form and provide offensive production, Odor could prove to be a valuable asset for the team as they compete in a tough American League East division. The Yankees will be closely monitoring Odor’s performance in the minor leagues and will be hoping that he can earn a call-up and contribute to their success this season. The signing of Odor represents a calculated gamble for the Yankees, who are looking to add depth and talent to their roster as they aim to compete for a playoff spot in the upcoming season.
Overall, Rougned Odor’s signing with the New York Yankees on a minor-league deal presents an opportunity for the veteran infielder to revive his career and make an impact for a competitive team. With his power potential and versatility, Odor could provide valuable depth for the Yankees and potentially contribute to their success in the 2024 season if he can perform well and earn a spot on the MLB roster. The Yankees’ decision to take a chance on Odor reflects their willingness to give players a second chance and their belief in his ability to bounce back and make a positive impact on the team.
